tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41871315134098621672024-03-17T02:14:31.453-07:00The day flew by so fast it was a blur...Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.comBlogger2128125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-87208822362451937072015-06-29T23:10:00.001-07:002024-03-12T04:35:08.342-07:00Chowmahalla PalaceDuring our week in Hyderabad, some of the places we visited include the Mecca Mosque, <span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">the Charminar (the icon of Hyderabad), Sufi Shrine, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birla_Mandir,_Hyderabad">Birla Mandir</a> (pure white marble Hindu temple) and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salar_Jung_Museum">Salar Jung Museum</a> (pretty good actually).</span></span><br />
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<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">I personally enjoyed <a href="http://www.chowmahalla.com/">Chowmahalla Palace</a> because it has a great combination of nice architecture, history, artifacts and gardens all within the sprawling compound.</span></span><br />
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<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">The magnificent palace of the Nizams, unique for its style and elegance, originally covered 45 acres but today only 12 acres remain.</span></span><span class="fbPhotoTagList" id="fbPhotoSnowliftTagList"><span class="fcg"> </span></span><br />
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-88972514718071965552015-06-26T02:00:00.000-07:002024-03-12T04:38:51.875-07:00The streets of Hyderabad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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We visited Hyderabad when the weather was at its hottest. With temperatures soaring to 40 degree celcius, even the breeze was hot. The death toll in India during the heatwave was alarmingly high at over 2,500!</div>
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It was essential for us to stay hydrated and dress in thin cotton. Business was always brisk at the coconut and sugar cane vendor's cart.<br />
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Even with the heat, the bazaars were always packed with people and vehicles. It takes a lot of courage to weave through chaotic traffic and cross the busy roads. </div>
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On some days, we could even see the tar on the road melting from the intense heat. In the evenings, people came out in full force to shop at the bazaars. Sultan Bazaar is textile paradise while Laad Bazaar is the place to go for jewelry and pearls.<br />
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Food is cheap and plentiful. Hyderabad is famous for briyani, with variations like vegetarian, mutton or chicken to choose from. Aside from rice, we ate different styles of roti, served with dips and curry everyday.<br />
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We drank lots of milk tea as well. They were so good and cheap! The small glass cups cost SGD 20cts each.</div>
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Enjoy the photos taken while we were out and about. It was mango season and hawkers were selling them everywhere. </div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-60639459288718081542015-06-26T00:06:00.001-07:002024-03-12T04:39:30.962-07:00Traditional wedding in Hyderabad<div style="text-align: left;">
When the opportunity came up for us to attend Sai and Ramya's wedding in India, we grabbed it without any second thoughts. It turned out to be a fascinating ceremony which lasted an entire week.</div>
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First, we went to the <span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">mehendhi party at the bride's house. </span></span></div>
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The mehendi artists from Rajasthan were amazing. </div>
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The bride getting her arms and feet painted. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a first for me and I was so thrilled.</td></tr>
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The Hindu wedding ceremony took place two days later at a hotel. It began at 7am and lasted 6 hours. It was a real eye-opener and for those who are interested to know the details, I found an excellent article here -<a href="http://web.stanford.edu/%7Egopi/personal/wedding/logistics/ceremony/">The hindu wedding ceremony.</a></div>
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We also attended two dinners, hosted separately by the bride and groom's families.</div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-49436679100615858832015-05-28T20:31:00.001-07:002024-03-12T04:40:28.430-07:00From Bhutan to Bintan<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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This weekend, we are in the gorgeous private island off Bintan - Nikoi Island. I have not had a beach holiday in ages and this is such an amazing place to get away from it all. I wake up after a good night's sleep gushing about how wonderful life is! You have to be here to <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">experience it yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Every once in a while, we really need to get away and do nothing at all. Nikoi is the perfect place to retreat to. The boat journey from Singapore to Bintan is only one hour, followed by an hour's car ride to Nikoi's private jetty. From there, the speedboat takes you to the private island in 15 minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It may not be cheap but everything is taken care by the efficient staff, from clearing customs to transportation and meals. Even the menu is fixed. I find it really relaxing when I don't have to make any decisions for a few days. I wish I could stay a little longer.</span><br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SbpGUnhK6AY/VWfjhYieqII/AAAAAAAAcEo/5Skmw1YU6vk/s640/blogger-image-1804346505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SbpGUnhK6AY/VWfjhYieqII/AAAAAAAAcEo/5Skmw1YU6vk/s400/blogger-image-1804346505.jpg" width="400" /></span></a>Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-30238853770854915312015-05-27T02:25:00.000-07:002024-03-12T04:41:47.000-07:00Taktsang Goemba, Tiger's Nest Monastery<div style="text-align: left;">
If you ask me which place in Bhutan's has left the deepest impression on me, it has got to be Taktsang Goemba, also known as Tiger's Nest Monastery.</div>
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Don't get me wrong. Areas like Gangtey and Punakha are incredible but the Tiger's Nest perched on the side of a cliff high above a forest of blue pines and rhododendrons, is in a class of its own. </div>
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It is said that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site on the back of a tigress, a manisfestation of his consort Yeshe Tsogyal, to subdue a local demon some 1,300 years ago. Finding shelter in a series of caves,
he lived and meditated for three years before setting out converting the
Bhutanese to Buddhism. Considered the holiest site in Bhutan, it is also recognised as the cultural icon of the Kingdom.</div>
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The monastery is in an isolated location accessible only by mountainous
paths. Due to its unique location, supplies to the tea house and resort up the hill are normally carried by horses.</div>
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In 1998, a huge fire destroyed the monastery and emergency assistance was impossible within short notice. Last year, a tourist fell off the cliff and it took the rescue
team many hours to retrieve her body from the deep valley.<br>
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From afar, it seems as if the monastery is out of reach, yet everyone we met that morning were determined to get there. It's a long and hard uphill climb. The thin mountain air makes you exhausted very quickly and knee pain sets in after the gruelling climb.</div>
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Depending on your fitness level, it can take between 2 to 4 hours to reach the monastery. There is a tea house along the way where people stop for free tea, biscuits and to use the toilet. </div>
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After that, the ascent gets steeper and hotter with the sun blazing high in the sky. It's always a good idea to start early in the morning. We saw people starting their trek when we were heading back around noon and I felt nothing but pity for them. </div>
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After the dirt tracks, we came to the start of the stone stairways. This is also <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">the best spot to capture the best view of Taktsang Goemba. We were reminded to be careful for this was where the tourist fell off just a year ago.</span></div>
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We took in the mersmerising view of the green valley before tackling the flight of steps which took us down to the valley before going up again towards the entrance of the monastery.</div>
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The final flight of steps brought us to the destination. We had to hand over our cameras, phones and bags to the security officers before entering the building. You should also be dressed </div>
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appropriately as this is a holy site. </div>
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I asked the seurity officer if he climbed all this way up to work everyday, he smiled and said they stay for a month each time.</div>
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We were given a tour of the different religious chambers. It was in the temple with the sitting statue of Padmasambhava that I suddenly felt goosebumps all over my body. Phuntshok said that he always felt complete after visiting this monastery. While reading up about <a href="http://voices.nationalgeographic.com/2014/11/30/ascending-bhutans-sacred-tigers-nest/">Taksang Goemba</a>, I realised it's not uncommon for people to have some kind of spiritual experience when they're here. </div>
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After spending half an hour at the monastery, we were famished and wanted to make our way back to the foot of the hill as fast as we could. The descent (the same road up) was much easier and we didn't stop very much to take photos or breaks.</div>
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At the foot of the hills, there were many stalls selling colourful handicrafts. </div>
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Karma had set up a picnic mat under the pine trees with hot food and milk tea waiting for us. I can say this was the highlight of our trip. The lunch was delicious and the experience is simply unforgettable.</div>
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We were surrounded by dogs and cows at the picnic ground but none of them encroached our mat to bother us. After lunch, Phuntshok shared our leftovers with them.</div>
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It was the best day of our trip. Sadly, it was also the end of our tour. We left the beautiful kingdom when dawn broke over Paro Valley the next morning.<br>
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We'll be back!</div>
Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-84755640224480588102015-05-24T07:03:00.002-07:002024-03-12T04:42:27.696-07:00Back to Paro<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Your tour guide can make or break your vacation. After traveling independently for so long, I was rather apprehensive about having a guide with us all week. As it is mandatory in Bhutan, we just hoped for the best.<br />
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As it turns out, we had nothing to worry about. Phuntshok is a knowledgeable and efficient person who works in tandem with Karma to ensure that our trip went without a hitch.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Over the week, Bhutan was getting increasingly beautiful in our eyes. We were charmed by the well mannered people and</span> enjoyed the company of Phuntshok and Karma who made the long hours on the road fun and interesting. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IR9ZUYdLuso/VWHSt31v_7I/AAAAAAAAb8o/Ma2-nOyfJ0c/s1600/11167854_10152990365194107_3384920149101995869_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IR9ZUYdLuso/VWHSt31v_7I/AAAAAAAAb8o/Ma2-nOyfJ0c/s400/11167854_10152990365194107_3384920149101995869_n.jpg" width="400" /></a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> In fact, they had saved the best for last. We were heading back to Paro, the place we landed days ago. </span></div>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">At
an elevation of 2,250m, Paro is the entry point for most
journeys through the Kingdom as the international </span>airport is located here, in a deep valley on the bank of river Paro Chhu. It is said that the approach to the airport is so unbelievably complicated that only pilots with special training are qualified to land there. <br />
<i></i><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugm6qdZkFXM/VV2Ds6XZ7bI/AAAAAAAAb6o/DijakGeXj3M/s1600/s.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugm6qdZkFXM/VV2Ds6XZ7bI/AAAAAAAAb6o/DijakGeXj3M/s400/s.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Paro is home to some of the most impressive Dzongs in Bhutan. It's no wonder that Hong Kong A-list stars Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Carina Lau Kar-ling picked Paro as the destination to hold their <a href="http://www.517budan.com/blog/post/12.html">wedding</a>.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxdPyK8_EsY/VWHSukXyQkI/AAAAAAAAb8w/bnt-F8ZO-gs/s1600/11203726_10153001742769024_6340769851411355044_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxdPyK8_EsY/VWHSukXyQkI/AAAAAAAAb8w/bnt-F8ZO-gs/s400/11203726_10153001742769024_6340769851411355044_n.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5wpIZoiNRA/VWHSt88BqAI/AAAAAAAAb8g/REuCcd23PJI/s1600/11182040_10153001743024024_4555943993768358898_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5wpIZoiNRA/VWHSt88BqAI/AAAAAAAAb8g/REuCcd23PJI/s400/11182040_10153001743024024_4555943993768358898_n.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
The first Dzong we visited was the imposing Paro Dzong built on the steep hillside. The correct name is Rinchen Pung Dzong which means "Fortress on a Heap of Jewels". Some scenes from Bernardo Bertolucci's 1995 film Little Buddha were filmed here.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TaEnbN2q9h8/VV2Dnnnu3fI/AAAAAAAAb5Q/2oIHifZY0jc/s1600/1-IMG_0537.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TaEnbN2q9h8/VV2Dnnnu3fI/AAAAAAAAb5Q/2oIHifZY0jc/s400/1-IMG_0537.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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In Paro, it is impossible to miss the 600-year old iron chain link suspension bridge, festooned with colourful prayer flags.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmS9pbPxpus/VV2DrNyOa2I/AAAAAAAAb6I/QycmjEbrvFw/s1600/qq.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmS9pbPxpus/VV2DrNyOa2I/AAAAAAAAb6I/QycmjEbrvFw/s400/qq.jpg" width="300" /></a> </div>
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It is worth making a stop to experience what it feels like crossing on this flexible bridge.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0tlvVHUQ-rI/VV2Dq_AwWbI/AAAAAAAAb6A/-6sFsrAAYcc/s1600/hh.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0tlvVHUQ-rI/VV2Dq_AwWbI/AAAAAAAAb6A/-6sFsrAAYcc/s400/hh.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We were reaching the end of the trip and were thankful to be staying in Paro for 2 nights. Metta Resort & Spa is just like my dream home with the most gorgeous garden. </div>
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The owners, a Malaysian lady and her Bhutanese husband, are super friendly. Knowing how much we miss Chinese food, she came up to us during dinner to announce that they will be serving beef kuey teow (noodle) soup for breakfast the next day. The Chinese dinner was a nice change too, after a week of eating Bhutanese food.</div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-44641910384997338792015-05-20T21:34:00.006-07:002015-05-20T21:36:23.801-07:00My pride and joy<div style="text-align: left;">
Taking a break from writing about travels to talk about the other loves of my life - my sons.</div>
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Those who have been following my blog will know about the ups and downs in my life. The reason why I'm working so hard is to bring my sons up to be good human beings. In the last 20 years, my biggest fear was not being able to raise them up properly. </div>
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Now that both of them have received their diplomas and will be heading to the university, I can finally give myself a pat. My heart was filled with so much joy to see SK at his graduation ceremony this week. And seeing both brothers taking care of each other just makes my life complete.</div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-22934039139801055162015-05-18T23:20:00.000-07:002024-03-12T04:42:57.130-07:00On the road again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.5;"> In Punakha, we spent one night in Zangto Pelri Hotel which is nestled amidst</span> lush sub-tropical garden of pine trees. </div>
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The building looks really impressive for a guesthouse. Traditional architecture remains alive in Bhutan. As recently as 1998,
by royal decree, all buildings must be constructed with multi-coloured
wood frontages, small arched windows, and sloping roofs. </div>
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While relaxing in the hotel garden, we craved for some nuts to go with our favourite Druk11000 beer. For days, we had not seen any nuts anywhere. The waiter was clueless, so I went to front desk. After a flurry of phone calls and much waiting, she asked, "Cashew ok?"</div>
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A plate of freshly fried cashew nuts arrived some 15 minutes later. Nobody knew how much we should pay either. We were probably the first to order a plate of nuts in Bhutan!</div>
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According to Phuntshok, even peanuts are considered a luxury in Bhutan. When we return in future, we'll bring lots of nuts.</div>
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The next morning, we loaded up the car and hit the road again. </div>
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It was back to the single highway that is 1.5
lanes wide with up to 12 bends per kilometre. The 143km journey from
Punakha to Paro took almost 5 hours. </div>
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We avoided the major road blocks, except for a short one which gave us the opportunity to wander around to take in the views and savour wild strawberries.</div>
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Finally, we arrived in Paro, just in time for lunch. I survived the trip without throwing up which was worth celebrating!</div>
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Lunch at Buddha Restaurant was delicious, with views of snow-capped mountains to boot. Marijuana grows wild along the road. They are used as fodder for the pigs.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild marijuana.</td></tr>
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Paro town is one of the most beautiful towns in Bhutan. If you have no desire to travel across the country to see the sights, you'll be happy staying in Paro, which is home to many monasteries and temples.</div>
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Even the small shopping district is so quaint and charming. It reminds me of the wild wild west. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brioche sells really good cakes.</td></tr>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-37287329670508522152015-05-17T23:06:00.005-07:002024-03-12T04:43:34.682-07:00Punakha DzongIt seems that in Bhutan, every road, track or trail leads to a Dzong or monastry. You might think by now we were up to our eyeballs in temples but our guide, Phuntshok assured us<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption" data-gt="{"timeline_og_unit_click":"1","app_id":"124024574287414","action_type_id":"282366618453208","object_type":"instapp:photo","unit_id":"447280888645770","og_ref":"ogexp","is_intentional":"1"}"> that Punakha Dzong </span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption" data-gt="{"timeline_og_unit_click":"1","app_id":"124024574287414","action_type_id":"282366618453208","object_type":"instapp:photo","unit_id":"447280888645770","og_ref":"ogexp","is_intentional":"1"}">is different.</span></span><br />
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<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption" data-gt="{"timeline_og_unit_click":"1","app_id":"124024574287414","action_type_id":"282366618453208","object_type":"instapp:photo","unit_id":"447280888645770","og_ref":"ogexp","is_intentional":"1"}">Also known as the palace of great happiness, Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan, especially when the jacaranda trees are in full bloom. </span></span></div>
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Located on an island at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers in the Punakha–Wangdue valley, it is connected to the main land with the help of a wooden bridge.</div>
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Then we drove a little nearer to take in the best view. Indeed it is gorgeous, framed by the lilac blooms of the j<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption" data-gt="{"timeline_og_unit_click":"1","app_id":"124024574287414","action_type_id":"282366618453208","object_type":"instapp:photo","unit_id":"447280888645770","og_ref":"ogexp","is_intentional":"1"}">acaranda trees.</span></span> </div>
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While waiting for the gates to open at 3pm, we spotted Phuntshok posing for photos in his official attire - <span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">Gho worn with a white silk scarf called kabney</span></span></span></span><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span></span></span>as a way of showing respect while visiting temples, attending official
meetings, meeting high officials, and celebrating festivals. </div>
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<span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">Punakha Dzong was built in 1637; it was the second dzong to be built in
Bhutan and is also the second largest dzong in the country. It is the venue for the coronation of all the kings of Bhutan. </span></span></span></span><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">The wedding of the current King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was also held here on 13 October 2011.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">You can read all about the fascinating history of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punakha_Dzong">Punakha Dzong including how it was damaged by earthquakes, fire and floods here.</a></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".ds.1:4:1:$comment10152999777474024_10153000405479024:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0"> In case you're still clueless, Dzongs are </span></span></span></span>massive fortresses with towering exterior walls surrounding a complex of courtyards, temples, administrative offices and monks' accommodation. In Bhutan, Dzongs serve as the religious, military, administrative, and social centers of their district.</div>
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In addition to its strategic position at the river confluence, Punakha Dzong
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entry stairs are designed to be pulled up, and there is a heavy wooden
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The assembly hall is even more impressive. Located
at the far end of the dzong, the ceiling of the hall is adorned with paintings of several beautiful dragons. Since cameras are not allowed inside the halls, the only way to appreciate its beauty is to be there in person.</div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-84097538320625661962015-05-13T21:30:00.003-07:002024-03-12T04:44:27.346-07:00The Gangtey Trail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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We stayed one night in Dewachen Hotel which didn't give us with any time to enjoy the facilities and their hospitality. If not for the US$250 daily tariff, we would love to spend more time in Bhutan. Considering this sum covers accommodation, all meals, a driver and guide, it's still very reasonable.We heard the tariff is set to increase, so plan your trip quickly. <br>
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We were surprised that May Ling and I were assigned our own SUV and guide instead of being herded around with a large group of unfamiliar faces.<br>
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That is one thing that makes Bhutan very appealing to us. While there are opportunities for Bhutan to generate more wealth like the rest of the world, the Kingdom has rejected GDP as the only way to measure progress. Instead, it has championed a new approach to development, which measures
prosperity through formal principles of gross national happiness (GNH)
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When we asked Phuntshok if he'll see a day when fast food chains make an appearance here, his answer was firm, "Never".<br>
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Since we had only one week in Bhutan, we didn't have time to linger. And we had to keep to the schedule to avoid the daily road blocks.<br>
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The rainy morning's temperature was 5 degree celcius and May Ling was advised against wearing her open toe sandals. Dressed in a winter jacket, Phuntshok gallantly gave up his hiking boots for her. He trekked in his shiny black shoes while she plodded along in his oversized boots and a green poncho. She looked like a walking Christmas tree. </div>
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We started walking from the wetlands of the Phobjikha Valley which is part of the Black Mountains National Park. The marshy bog</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> is where the flock of 300 endangered black-necked cranes come to roost every winter, </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">making it one of Bhutan's most important wildlife sanctuaries.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IMg39WFmDfc/VVM4vSqR-eI/AAAAAAAAbsk/pTu-nrShJgc/s1600/1-IMG_0495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IMg39WFmDfc/VVM4vSqR-eI/AAAAAAAAbsk/pTu-nrShJgc/s400/1-IMG_0495.JPG" width="400"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span>The hilltop offers sweeping views of the stunning valley landscape.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cok--GmvJ2k/VVM4vsy_eGI/AAAAAAAAbss/I5ifBT_8qRU/s1600/1-IMG_0501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cok--GmvJ2k/VVM4vsy_eGI/AAAAAAAAbss/I5ifBT_8qRU/s400/1-IMG_0501.JPG" width="400"></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPyOVOK8Yiw/VVM5KY5-OsI/AAAAAAAAbt4/vU8r-76EIzg/s1600/111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> </span>After clearing the bog, the <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">trail then winds through forests of blue pine, magnolia and rhododendrons and over small streams of cold, clear
mountain water.</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPyOVOK8Yiw/VVM5KY5-OsI/AAAAAAAAbt4/vU8r-76EIzg/s1600/111.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPyOVOK8Yiw/VVM5KY5-OsI/AAAAAAAAbt4/vU8r-76EIzg/s400/111.jpg" width="400"></a> </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-etcoN_FFHqk/VVM5R2taPiI/AAAAAAAAbu8/uZXW671deJk/s1600/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-etcoN_FFHqk/VVM5R2taPiI/AAAAAAAAbu8/uZXW671deJk/s400/1.jpg" width="300"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">We came to a small beautiful village with charming traditional houses.Organic potatoes grown here are exported to India for good profit. </span></div>
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The pleasurable walk ended with an uphill climb leading to Gangtey Goemba, a 16th century monastery situated at the
hilltop at the edge of Gangtey village.<br>
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As if on cue, two friendly dogs came forward to welcome us.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHGIyuwbXBo/VVM90NJsgpI/AAAAAAAAbwA/wREijgrYvqE/s1600/zzz.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHGIyuwbXBo/VVM90NJsgpI/AAAAAAAAbwA/wREijgrYvqE/s400/zzz.JPG" width="300"></a></div>
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The Gangtey Goemba Monastry features a school, meditation facilities and quarters for monks,
and is home to the mind reincarnation of <a href="http://www.treasuryoflives.org/biographies/view/Pema-Lingpa/3000">Pema Lingpa</a>, one of the
region’s historically important Buddhist treasure discoverers.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bFIrwNZ1Jgk/VVM5P-5X2zI/AAAAAAAAbvQ/vwWXQ0rV3nQ/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bFIrwNZ1Jgk/VVM5P-5X2zI/AAAAAAAAbvQ/vwWXQ0rV3nQ/s400/7.jpg" width="300"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dogs curled up in the cold.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZDuFs971Lg/VVM5QdTEQjI/AAAAAAAAbvI/6FgK1_ezuDQ/s1600/8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZDuFs971Lg/VVM5QdTEQjI/AAAAAAAAbvI/6FgK1_ezuDQ/s400/8.jpg" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yaks are usually found on the alpines.</td></tr>
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Then it was time to hit the road again. Even with the careful planning, we could not avoid a road block but this was a short one. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xXouZHlFC_c/VVM9z6lbOVI/AAAAAAAAbwI/zvU1BKhJdvA/s1600/zzxx.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xXouZHlFC_c/VVM9z6lbOVI/AAAAAAAAbwI/zvU1BKhJdvA/s400/zzxx.JPG" width="300"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The short road block gave Karma time to stretch his legs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-47829189785924976972015-05-13T00:33:00.002-07:002015-05-14T05:41:04.160-07:00The hidden valley of PhobjikhaOur journey was getting better with every passing hour. After traversing what seemed like endless mountainous roads, we were finally reaching our next destination. But first, let me show you some bridges we crossed along the way.<br />
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The crystal clear rivers of Bhutan, fed by glacier-melts of the Eastern Himalayas, cut through the kingdom's valleys and plains to finally converge at Bramaputra River in India. Most of the magnificent bridges here were constructed with financial support from countries like India, Switzerland and Japan.<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> </span><br />
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We were staying in a village called Phobjikha for the night. Located in one of the kingdom's few glacial valleys, this village is inhabited by the families who take care of the Gangtey Monastery, a 17th century monastery that perches on a hillock rising from the valley floor. This is one of Bhutan's most beautiful areas and it's still almost untouched by modernisation.<br />
<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AeHfFAd-WwU/VVLvPq2bDYI/AAAAAAAAbr4/FV9r13WZwm0/s1600/IMG_6979.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AeHfFAd-WwU/VVLvPq2bDYI/AAAAAAAAbr4/FV9r13WZwm0/s400/IMG_6979.JPG" width="400" /></a></span> <br />
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Encircled by pine forest in a hidden valley, Phobjikha is best known for the rare black necked cranes that migrate from the extremely cold winters of the Tibetan Plateau to pass the milder winter here. These elegant birds can be seen from end October to March when they circle the monastry on their way back home.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2QYgQGuJxas/VVLkHZH82SI/AAAAAAAAbqw/S7pGmHrVkB8/s1600/IMG_6969.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2QYgQGuJxas/VVLkHZH82SI/AAAAAAAAbqw/S7pGmHrVkB8/s400/IMG_6969.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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Unfortunately, this wasn't the season for crane watching. Still, to me, visiting the village was akin to entering the lush alien world of Pandora where I could see strange blue Na'vi<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"> characters just like in Avatar.</span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">Of course that was my imagination running wild. What we saw were rustic farmhouses with animals grazing in the yard. </span><br />
<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"><br /></span>
<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">Potato is the main cash crop here. Almost every home has stacks of firewood and a patch of mustard with gorgeous yellow flowers growing in the backyard. The villagers still rely on firewood as they did not have any access to electricity until a couple of years ago.</span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">It was drizzling when </span><span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">we finally arrived at <a href="http://www.dewachenhotel.com/">Dewachen Hotel.</a> The entire vehicle was caked in mud after manoeuvring the narrow and muddy track. </span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"><span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">We were bowled over by the beauty of the hotel and its surroundings. </span>At an altitute of 2,900m, it can get very chilly at night. We hovered around the fireplace in the dining hall to keep ourselves warm. </span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">The rooms here are also fitted with an iron stove fired by pine wood. We later discovered that the logs burn out so quickly, we had to keep refuelling every 30 minutes. Instead of relying on the stove, I put on my thermal wear and slept soundly under the warm covers that night.</span><br />
<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"> </span><span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMNKpR1GP9g/VVL7JzGHH1I/AAAAAAAAbsI/iz7fKPGnPmA/s1600/IMG_6973.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMNKpR1GP9g/VVL7JzGHH1I/AAAAAAAAbsI/iz7fKPGnPmA/s400/IMG_6973.JPG" width="400" /></a></span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">It was still drizzling when we woke up the next morning. There was no electric supply that morning and I was craving for a hot cuppa. I made my way to the dining hall to ask for hot tea. </span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">The reply I received was classic! "Sorry madam, we're still setting up the fire stove." </span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"><span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">I did some jumping jacks in the room to stay warm while waiting for breakfast to be ready.</span></span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">The plan that morning was to trek t</span><span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">hrough the vegetation of dwarf bamboos that adorns the Phobjikha valley. Our guide gave us that questioning look but how could we miss the opportunity to trek the Gangtey Trail? </span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY">So off we went in the rain. </span><br />
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<span class="r-iw9Xzlc0_jWY"></span><br />Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-77261976905518661782015-05-09T19:30:00.001-07:002024-03-12T04:45:02.393-07:00Drukpa Kunley - the Divine MadmanWe were introduced to many Bhutanese legendary personalities but the most bizarre has got to be Drukpa Kunley, the divine madman. I was going to write about his exploits until I found someone who did it so well <a href="http://www.elephantjournal.com/2012/03/the-flaming-thunderbolt-of-wisdom-a-penis-over-every-doorway-simon-hollington/">here</a>. It's a very fascinating read.<br />
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<span class="st">The </span>Bhutanese who, despite being a very
conservative society that never shows affection in public, protect their homes
from evil spirits and promote fertility by painting cartoon images of flying
phalluses on the outside walls of their houses.</div>
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Just to give you an idea, the women wear Kira, an ankle-length dress usually worn
with a wonju (long sleeved blouse) inside and a short jacket (toego)
outside. The men wear Gho, a knee-length dress like a Japanese kimono, paired with stockings or knee high socks.<br />
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You can barely see any show of skin yet it's easy to find an erect phallus hanging over the doorway.<br />
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Near the town of Punakha, Drukpa Kunley founded a monastery dedicated to
fertility. Each year hundreds of people come from all over Bhutan to pray for
children. In the temple they are blessed by a monk holding a symbolic phallus.</div>
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Needless to say, we should not pass an opportunity to see the monastery with our own eyes. The trek across was field was a welcome change after spending hours in the car. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wheat field.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The farmers grow organic potatoes.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many happy couples bring their children to give thanks after giving birth. </td></tr>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-86942169505142336522015-05-07T07:28:00.000-07:002024-03-12T04:45:46.631-07:00The long drive to PunakhaThe two days of temple and cultural visits were nice but I was longing to be amongst nature. I wanted to see the rugged beauty of Bhutan and taste the clear, crisp air of the mountains.<br />
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Yet when I was told of the 6-hour journey along the winding mountainous highway (it's the only way), my face turned a shade of green.<br />
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I love traveling but long road trips make me nauseous. It's a good thing none of my friends have this problem so I can sit next to the driver. Everyone knows that if I suddenly go quiet, it's time to steer clear as I'm about to puke.<br />
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Even though we spent more than 5-hours on the road, I got sick only once. Still, I was labeled 'the sick lady'. Every now and then, Karma would glance over to check the colour of my face.<br />
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For some reason, May Ling is now affectionately known as "Am Boktom", a popular cartoon character in Bhutan. The only way to make the journey more tolerable is to joke and chat with our guide and driver. Karma surprised us with his good English. He kept Phuntshok updated of daily current affairs and caught up on news during his driving breaks.<br />
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Staff at the hotels, eateries and even small retail shops are comfortable conversing in English. This is an entire system focused on language development and they place high reverence on teachers. <br />
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During the week, we saw kids walking long distances to get to school. Public education is provided free of charge so no child is denied the opportunity to study. English is taught as a major subject in all the schools.<br />
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Geographically, Bhutan is enveloped by India from the east to west and
south. Over the decades, Bhutan had developed a strong and
symbiotic relationship with India, from the supply of basic goods,
knowledge exchange, road works, labour and even Indian teachers! Seeing the need
to train their own teachers, a new teacher's training college had
recently been completed. The campus looked pretty impressive
from a distance. <br />
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That day, we saw families dressed in their best traditional attire making their way to the temples to mark an important religious event. From what we understood, every single person, even teenagers and young children, goes to the temple voluntarily on such days. That surprised me greatly as I know how difficult it is even to get our own kids to visit their grandparents sometimes.<br />
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The people at large speaks well of their monarchy and truly respects the royal family. You could feel the love they have for their King via the warmth and sincerity radiating from their conversations. Local commoners lined the highway wearing their most formal wear (mostly men in gho with a shawl) when they heard the king was driving by that day.<br />
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At first we couldn't grasp the concept of road blocks. Phuntshok was always going on about keeping to the schedule to avoid road blocks. When we managed to evade one, he was elated and would give us more time to stretch our legs at the teahouse.<br />
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We finally understood that due to the road widening project, parts of the road would be closed to traffic for up to 2 hours at a time. Everything would come to a standstill while excavators dug and loaded waiting trucks with boulders and sand. All this should come to an end by 2018 when the roadworks is completed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karma gets to stretch his legs during a road block.</td></tr>
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Thanks to his clever planning, we only stopped twice for about 20 minutes. People would get out of the vehicles to stretch, chat or chew betel nut.<br />
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We bombarded Phuntshok with endless questions. He has the answers to everything. By the end of the day, we could tell an Indian truck from a Bhutanese one. The Indian trucks are usually loaded with huge pipes for the hydro-electric project. They are battered, dirty and they spew tons of black smoke.<br />
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"Karma, let's overtake the polluted truck!", was something I had said more than once. He must have been an F1 driver in his past life. I shut my eyes whenever he overtakes a truck. One mistake would send us plummeting down the cliff.<br />
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Bhutanese trucks, on the other hand, are a joy to look at. They are clean, shiny and painted with colourful murals and nice slogans.<br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">After a bone shaking journey over potholes, loose rocks and negotiating turns, the entire vehicle is caked in mud. I have new respect for our driver who made the impossible seem so easy.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">In fact, many locals travel on buses that make treacherous journies across the country which could take up to 4 days. </span></div>
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That morning, we were driving up to Dochu-la Pass (3088m). On the way up, we had to stop at the Hongtsho Immigration Checkpoint. This area is a Tibetan settlement known for their apples.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apples for sale at Hongtsho.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puppy break.</td></tr>
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We arrived at the popular Dochula Pass which was supposed to offer a panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. On clear winter days, one could see high Himalayan peaks in their full glory. Alas, we could see nothing on this foggy morning. <br />
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We spent some time checking out the 108 chortens, a popular spiritual destination for locals and tourists.<br />
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After what seemed like forever, we stopped for lunch at Divine Cafeteria at Panukha. Lunch was served in a room with glass walls that overlook the farmland. The view was amazing and we were quickly enamoured with Bobo, the little boy and his pet cat.<br />
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-79775769844875992072015-05-06T23:00:00.004-07:002024-03-12T04:46:41.451-07:00Things to do in Thimphu<div style="text-align: left;">
Two days after the earthquake in Nepal, we could still feel the aftershock in the form of light tremors in Bhutan. Though it is a small country, the King quickly sent a big team of medical doctors and supplies, along with US$1m to help their neighbour. Karma, our driver, gave us updates of the situation several times a day.</div>
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A highly anticipated singing competition in the heart of the city was also cancelled. Instead, the monasteries swung into action and monks started chanting for the victims of the earthquake.</div>
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Despite warnings of dogs barking well into the night, we slept well. Breakfast is usually a simple affair in Bhutan. In the breakfast room, I picked steamed sweet potatoes, an egg and toast.</div>
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The people drink copious amount of red tea. Their daily diet is predominantly red rice, chilli (ema datshi), some vegetables and lentils. Meat is eaten only once or twice a month. The Bhutanese rely heavily on imported food and goods from India.</div>
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Due to their lack of refrigeration and warehousing facilities, most of the locally grown organic potatoes are exported to India. In the cold winter months, Bhutan will have to import the same potatoes from India at an inflated price. </div>
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High on the agenda today was to get ourselves some Ngultrum (local currency), so we headed to the general post office building where the bank is located. If you see carefully, you will find a dog lying at the foot of the stairs. This is a typical scene in Bhutan.</div>
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In the post office, lots of tourists were buying up Bhutanese stamps with such enthusiasm, like they were shopping for jewelry. Generally, foreigners are eager to bring home a piece of Bhutan and there isn't much to buy here. </div>
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Feeling somewhat secure now that we have some Ngultrum in our wallet, we headed to the hilltop to see Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha Statue made of bronze and gilded in gold.</div>
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Measuring 51.1m, the statue is located on top of the Kuenselphodrang National Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. It is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the world.</div>
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The
Buddha Dordenma is located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park
and overlooks the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. The statue
fulfills an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8<sup>th</sup> century
A.D that was discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa (Religious Treasure
Discoverer) and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the
entire world. - See more at:
http://www.tourism.gov.bt/western-bhutan/buddha-dordenma-statue#sthash.UHDGdqkS.dpuf</div>
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The rest of the day was spent visiting the National Library and museums where we saw traditional weaving techniques, how they carve wood and make paper out of tree barks.</div>
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An intricate piece of work takes a full time weaver up to a year to complete. Most Bhutanese women weave during their free time. They make their own hand woven kira to wear to weddings or important events.</div>
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We visited a very old farmhouse to understand how the farmers lived years ago. Phuntshok said something about men sneaking into the rooms at night to have fun with the womenfolk. Little Bhutan has a really interesting article about this <a href="https://www.littlebhutan.com/blogs/when-darkness-settles-night-hunting-begins.html">'night hunting' tradition</a>. He also pointed out a bath in the middle of the farm yard and I thought how could anyone bathe in the cold and open yard. </div>
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All the details are lost on me now. This happens when you see too much in one day. I only remember running after two little puppies at the farm.</div>
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At this point, let me show you these 4 friends commonly found in paintings and carvings all over Bhutan.The parable of the 4 friends is very popular here. <a href="http://www.conservenature.org/learn_about_wildlife/biodiversity_in_bhutan/four_friends.htm">Read here</a> if you're interested.</div>
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We had lunch in a lovely restaurant with a lush garden. It was here that we got hooked on the Druk 11000 beer. It is a really good locally brewed beer and I suspect it has everything to do with their water supply.</div>
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Lunch comprised red rice, momo, chilli with cheese, russet potatoes, mixed vegetables, lentil soup and chicken. A luxury compared with what the locals eat.</div>
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After lunch, Phuntshok brought his son Thanjin to say hello. We were so thrilled to meet such an adorable and handsome boy! I love to see kids wearing the traditional 'gho' (for boys) or kira (girls).</div>
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Flush with Ngultrum, we could finally patronise the bakery we had been eyeing since arrival. Opened in 1970 by one of Bhutan’s first expatriates, it’s a much-loved institution with expats and locals.</div>
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We ordered some cakes and coffee and chatted until the sky turned dark. </div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-67171807037820584242015-05-06T00:33:00.004-07:002015-05-09T01:29:41.314-07:00ThimphuFor me, this trip almost didn't happen. May Ling had booked hers way in advance and as a last ditch attempt to convince me, she said, "Don't regret ah!"<br />
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That sealed the deal.<br />
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If you remember May Ling from <a href="http://blurting.blogspot.sg/2012/06/sorrento-and-santagnello.html">our Italy Trip</a>, she makes a wonderful traveling companion. She's adventurous, entertaining and fun to be with.<br />
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When it comes to traveling to Bhutan, last minute decisions can be a nightmare for the travel agent. First, they have to apply for visa from the Bhutanese government. Next, to secure a seat on the only carrier Druk Air. Finally, finding a room can be challenging considering the limited choices available.<br />
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<a href="https://www.littlebhutan.com/">Little Bhutan</a> took all that in their stride and delivered one good news after another. It was nothing short of a miracle considering how people normally book months ahead. <br />
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The day before we left, Nepal was hit by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake that devastated the entire country. Parts of China and India were affected too. Thankfully, Bhutan was spared.<br />
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Before we landed in Paro Airport, I was already having stomach troubles. The tiny airport nestled amongst the steep mountains of the Himalayas is said to be the most dangerous in the world with only a handful of pilots qualified to land there. That did nothing to quell my upset stomach.<br />
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While Paro Airport has one of the most charming airport buildings in the world, I didn't have time to admire the artwork as I was hurrying to the bathroom.<br />
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Clearing customs was a breeze and the baggage arrived quickly. We didn't see our guide, Phuntshok, until he rescued us when we strayed and joined the wrong tour group. Good grief!<br />
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We boarded the SUV and headed towards Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Our driver, a young man named Karma, was seemingly quiet. Over the week, when he wasn't manoeuvring cliff hanging roads filled with potholes and hairpin turns, he would reveal his chatty and playful side.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always good to have Karma by my side. </td></tr>
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On the way to Thimphu, I had to make an urgent stop. "Can you hold for 15 minutes until we reach the hotel?", Phuntshok asked.<br />
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Surely not. We made an unscheduled stop along a row of shop houses. He went from door to door asking for the toilet. The first one was awful. Thankfully, the second one was clean or I might have to jump behind some bushes.<br />
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Phuntshok is the epitome of compassion and graciousness. If we were anywhere else, the guide's eyes would have rolled all the way to the back of his sockets.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phuntshok answering our endless questions.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Anyway, Thimphu lies in a steep valley at an altitute of 2,350m, surrounded by richly forested mountains dotted with ancient monasteries and temples.<br />
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It serves as a base for the first 2 nights to allow our bodies to acclimatise. Being home to many attractions within easy reach also makes it convenient for us to cover the popular spots.<br />
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There are no traffic lights in Thimphu. Drivers are guided by the dancing traffic policeman. Strange though, are the number of dogs sleeping peacefully outside his booth, under the policeman's gaze and protection.<br />
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Our first stop was Tashichho Dzong - an impressive building surrounded by well kept gardens and lawn.<br />
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A Dzong is a fortress built on strategic points mostly on mountain spurs to serve as an effective defence against an attack or invasion. Today, they are seats of district administrations and house the offices of the civil authority. Some of them house monasteries as well.<br />
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Of course, nothing excites me more than a farmers market. We insisted on visiting Bhutan's largest sunday market and found ourselves mingling with the locals without a single Ngultrum (local currency) in our pockets. Our guide and driver must be so amused by now.<br />
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We were happy to browse without buying. The ferns, betel nut and asparagus are some common local produce. Bhutanese love to chew Doma Pani, or areca nut and betel leaf with a dash of lime. <br />
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We spotted flat cakes studded with fern.They looked dry and clayey, not sure how these are eaten. <br />
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We ended the first day with a trip to National Memorial Choeten. One of the most iconic monuments in Thimphu, it attracts devotees who can be found circumambulating throughout the day. As they were preparing for an important religious festival that week, the Choeten was particularly crowded that day.<br />
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<br />Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-5067110173426407612015-05-04T23:21:00.002-07:002024-03-12T04:47:09.002-07:00Unforgettable Bhutan<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">While I have traveled to many places around the world, there
is no place that has left a deeper impression on me than Bhutan. To say that
Bhutan is a land of happiness or the Last Shangri-La is almost an understatement. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This fascinating country (aka Land of the Thunder Dragon) is nothing like the gleaming and progressive
cities we live in, yet in my opinion, they are ahead of us in many ways. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJqPkYia-04/VUheu6kdlJI/AAAAAAAAbUs/-wMZl0C_JyU/s1600/1-IMG_0520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJqPkYia-04/VUheu6kdlJI/AAAAAAAAbUs/-wMZl0C_JyU/s400/1-IMG_0520.JPG" width="331" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1-vMnd5Vd8/VUhevLirsfI/AAAAAAAAbU0/uwyKc5mZ0R8/s1600/1-IMG_0537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1-vMnd5Vd8/VUhevLirsfI/AAAAAAAAbU0/uwyKc5mZ0R8/s400/1-IMG_0537.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">For one, they don’t take their amazing landscape for
granted. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Conservation laws have protected
75% of their forested areas, making it one of the most pristine and untouched
environments on earth.
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZaLY-H_o8w/VUhexJ5vadI/AAAAAAAAbVQ/wY5BD4J-YrA/s1600/1-IMG_0551.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZaLY-H_o8w/VUhexJ5vadI/AAAAAAAAbVQ/wY5BD4J-YrA/s400/1-IMG_0551.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The country is blessed with an amazing landscape where snowcapped
peaks rise above gorges cloaked in blue pine and rhododendron. <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Within the folds of the majestic
mountains lie sacred temples, terraced rice fields, and farm houses in villages unchanged
by time.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N560acRCP54/VUhewV1cY4I/AAAAAAAAbVU/ad5F2OBOZiE/s1600/1-IMG_0544.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N560acRCP54/VUhewV1cY4I/AAAAAAAAbVU/ad5F2OBOZiE/s400/1-IMG_0544.JPG" width="400" /></a> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As the sole surviving Himalayan Buddhist Kingdom, Bhutan’s
traditional ways of Mahayana Buddhism<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;"> </span></i>permeate every aspect of Bhutanese life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The people are deeply religious, yet on the
other hand, well educated and knowledgeable. They speak good English and have perfect manners. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a country where women are treated equally, both at work and at home. Children are taught from birth to respect their parents, family and the elders. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OEB9RBTZZnU/VUhenkbgzsI/AAAAAAAAbT8/krYC9mRnQvY/s1600/11188263_10153001731724024_8526747793000516437_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OEB9RBTZZnU/VUhenkbgzsI/AAAAAAAAbT8/krYC9mRnQvY/s400/11188263_10153001731724024_8526747793000516437_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NC3wsbJBNf4/VUhevwKIO1I/AAAAAAAAbU4/RhGO2oGBQl8/s1600/1-IMG_0540.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NC3wsbJBNf4/VUhevwKIO1I/AAAAAAAAbU4/RhGO2oGBQl8/s400/1-IMG_0540.JPG" width="400" /></a></span> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nD0Lo1V3V_A/VUhetTInH8I/AAAAAAAAbUU/qcxnqlbN9Z8/s1600/1-IMG_0429.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nD0Lo1V3V_A/VUhetTInH8I/AAAAAAAAbUU/qcxnqlbN9Z8/s400/1-IMG_0429.JPG" width="400" /></a> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bhutan's Buddhist tradition of
respect and reverence for nature also means that botanical riches and unique mammals
and birds are protected in the national parks. </span>Dogs are everywhere but being so well treated, they live harmoniously with the people and show no sign of
aggression. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kq31NOq2ZjQ/VUi3Wa6Z6NI/AAAAAAAAbWc/SHxT3KqLzyw/s1600/CIMG0289%2B(Ting%2Bwith%2Bdoggie).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kq31NOq2ZjQ/VUi3Wa6Z6NI/AAAAAAAAbWc/SHxT3KqLzyw/s400/CIMG0289%2B(Ting%2Bwith%2Bdoggie).JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jN0B0ENKcv0/VUhenq8fJrI/AAAAAAAAbUE/ZleuYWLFSYU/s1600/11035744_10152993127544024_8263789158477413430_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jN0B0ENKcv0/VUhenq8fJrI/AAAAAAAAbUE/ZleuYWLFSYU/s400/11035744_10152993127544024_8263789158477413430_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It's like going back in time where life is simple and everyone is kind. I'm privileged to be one of the few who have experienced the natural
charm of a country where Gross National Happiness is deemed more important than
Gross National Product. </span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7IPOVJ1nEYI/VUi2ZreIPoI/AAAAAAAAbWM/s__YF1B2c5o/s1600/CIMG0116%2B%28Beaming%2Bat%2B2000m%29.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7IPOVJ1nEYI/VUi2ZreIPoI/AAAAAAAAbWM/s__YF1B2c5o/s400/CIMG0116%2B(Beaming%2Bat%2B2000m).JPG" width="400" /></a></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">All the buildings, including the airport is beautifully decorated.</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Getting
there is easier than you think. From Singapore, there is a direct flight on
Druk Air which stops in Calcutta for half an hour (refueling) before heading
to Paro, Bhutan. The flying time is around 5 hours. The daily tariff of
USD250 includes accommodation, food, driver and an official guide. </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We did not quite get the summer weather we were expecting as it could dip to 5 degree celcius on some nights, even in May. So always bring a jacket especially if you're going up the mountains. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We booked our
holiday with <a href="https://www.littlebhutan.com/">Little Bhutan</a> (https://www.littlebhutan.com/) after reading all the good reviews. Indeed, their service standard surpassed our expectations. It is probably the best trip of my life. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3osBuopmJXU/VUhenvgkuvI/AAAAAAAAbUA/IgiaYq9KzSo/s1600/11178238_10153002316279024_854959452915051143_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3osBuopmJXU/VUhenvgkuvI/AAAAAAAAbUA/IgiaYq9KzSo/s400/11178238_10153002316279024_854959452915051143_n.jpg" width="300" /></a> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I will write in detail about the places we visited including Thimphu, Paro, Panukha and Gangtey.<b> Stay tuned.</b></span></span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-66686049727314787142015-04-04T01:30:00.001-07:002015-04-05T23:57:50.618-07:00Raisin loaf<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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I tried making a loaf of bread with lots of wine infused raisins today. The loaf looked so promising and delicious before going into the oven.<br />
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Alas, i misread the recipe and all the glistening raisins got burnt! I was supposed to spread the dough into a flat sheet, scatter the raisins on top and roll up before fitting into the loaf pan.</div>
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After removing the burnt raisins, the bread looks awful but tastes good! Imagine how good it will taste if I had done it correctly. Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-91368893919254633172015-02-02T20:55:00.000-08:002024-03-12T04:47:44.748-07:00Ge Garden in Yangzhou<div style="text-align: left;">
Traveling to Yangzhou from Shanghai using the high speed train (average speed of 300km/hr) took me only an hour. After my meeting, I had a couple of hours to spare before the ride back, so my supplier brought me to Ge Garden.</div>
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Featuring elaborate rock formations and bamboo groves, the impressive garden was built for a wealthy salt merchant during the Qing Dynasty. Today, it is maintained by the state.</div>
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If you happen to be in Yangzhou, it's worth a visit. It would look better during spring and summer when the trees are green and flowering. There are guides to bring you around, providing insights into how the buildings are designed to bring luck and prosperity to the owner.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elaborate rock formations carefully pieced together to form animals etc.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many different kinds of bamboo can be found here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tourist street outside the garden.</td></tr>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-2454288184420469592014-10-17T20:21:00.002-07:002024-03-12T04:48:13.789-07:00Shopping in Bandung<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Ask anyone why they go to Bandung and they're likely to tell you they're here to shop. Indeed, there are so many factory outlets here, you can spend days going through racks and piles of clothes and shoes.</div>
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There are street vendors selling bags, phone case, durian ice cream and so forth. We went a little crazy over these colourful bags!</div>
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After all the shopping, Irwan brought us to Hummingbird Cafe for lunch. </div>
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I love the decor and food at this place and would definitely come back if I visit Bandung again.</div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-60194157460766864842014-10-15T05:40:00.001-07:002024-03-12T04:48:43.991-07:00Rose Garden (Kebun Mawar)<div style="text-align: left;">
Much as we like seeing volcanoes and craters, we got a bit jaded after a while. When we spotted Kebun Mawar (Rose Garden) on the way to Kamojang Crater, we had to make a stop.<br />
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About 15 km from Garut city, Kebun Mawar is built around 5 hectares of largely
flat land at an altitude of 1,150 m above sea levels. The cooler climate here is ideal for growing roses and other flowers. It is also a resort with bungalows and a gift shop.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large lemons.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The biggest dill I've ever seen!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roses bring out the damsel in us.</td></tr>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-83421026475139937422014-10-09T22:58:00.001-07:002024-03-12T04:52:57.868-07:00Kamojang Crater<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Being in Garut which is so near volcanic mountains, naturally, there are many hotspots to discover. To me, the highlight of the trip was the hike up Mount <a href="http://blurting.blogspot.sg/2014/10/kawah-papandayan.html">Papandayan</a>. <br />
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If you're into boiling mud pools and hissing steam columns, then you might find Kamojang Crater super awesome. I can't say I'm geeky enough to truly appreciate the natural wonders of the geyser, it's interesting enough to warrant a visit. </div>
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Kamojang crater is located on Mount Guntur and is listed as an active volcano of Indonesia because of its
geothermal activities. There are 23 active geysers in the form of bubbling mud pools here. I stuck my finger in and found the heat tolerable.</div>
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Located near the crater is the Darajat Power Station, which is the 10th largest geothermal power stations in the world. The power station comprises of three plants serving the provinces of Java and Bali. </div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-11793624126565814992014-10-07T22:56:00.002-07:002024-03-12T04:53:33.883-07:00Staying and eating in Garut<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.indonesia-tourism.com/west-java/garut.html">Garut </a>is an old Dutch hill station surrounded by mountains, volcanoes, and crystal clear lakes, so it attracts the adventure-lovers. For those who're looking for a nice place to stay after a hard day of hiking, Kampung Sumber Alam might just fit the bill. <br />
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As we were assigned a bungalow near the entrance, we did not realise how impressive it is until we went looking for the breakfast venue which is tucked away in a corner of the sprawling estate.<br />
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The bungalows are built in traditional Sudanese architectural style, so they look rustic and natural. Located at the foot of Mt Guntur, some rooms even come with a private pool with natural sulphurous hot spring water from the volcano. The hotel also boasts of many other facilities which we didn't use during our stay.<br />
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We had a mediocre dinner at our hotel on the first night. The next day, Irwan brought us to Kampung Sampireun Resort & Spa for lunch.<br />
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This resort, with its wooden bungalows over water, looks uncanningly similar to Sumber Alam. We had to walk past lots of hungry fishes in the pond before we could reach the restaurant.</div>
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The restaurant is also tucked away amongst lush greenery. We were ushered to a wooden hut where the meal is served.</div>
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We ordered an array of Sudanese dishes. The fried banana dessert (below) was covered in a thick layer of grated cheese. Apparently the locally produced cheese is widely eaten by the people here which is not surprisingly as Garut is an old Dutch hill station.</div>
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That same night, Irwan brought us to the local night market (pasar malam). While it was a fascinating experience for us, we were careful to navigate our way through the crowded alleys without getting run over by speeding bikes.</div>
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We found something familiar - peanut pancake! Here, they add a dollop of butter just before serving which makes it really rich and tasty! </div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-80990928842814853022014-10-06T19:24:00.000-07:002024-03-12T04:54:02.213-07:00Sunrise at Papandayan<div style="text-align: left;">
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When GC took the lead to draw up the itinerary for our trip, I was so happy to sit back and relax. Luckily we have the perfect planner and our first day in Garut turned out to be excellent.<br />
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Incidentally, The Garut Regency (previously called Limbangan Regency), was founded by Lieutenant-Governor <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stamford_Raffles" title="Stamford Raffles">Stamford Raffles</a> on 16 February 1813. He went on and founded Singapore in 1819! <br />
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Back to our story. After long hours on the road, we arrived at Kampung Sumber Alam Hotel in the evening feeling quite exhausted. So when Irwan suggested leaving at 3am the next morning to see sunrise at some volcanic mountain, we weren't too enthusiastic.<br />
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The thought of waking up so early didn't sound appealing but when we saw GC's eyes light up, we just couldn't bear to say no. And thank goodness we went! It was an incredible experience.<br />
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When we left at 3am, the air was chilly. The drive to the base of Papandayan took an hour, partly due to the bad conditions of the road leading to the mountain. We arrived at the carpark in pitch darkness. The air was so cold (around 15 degree celcius) that the park rangers were dressed in thick winter wear!<br />
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We needed a guide to bring us to the peak. We had no idea what the terrain was like as we were were only guided by a small torch. It was exciting to walk in the dark in a single file.<br />
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The ascent was not easy as the trail was filled with loose rocks. The air was thick with the smell of sulphur. Behind me, GC was constantly asking "Are we reaching?" It turned out to be a pretty long and tiring climb and the destination was getting elusive.<br />
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Somehow, we managed to get there before sunrise. <br />
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It was quiet and peaceful at the peak. We almost had the entire mountain top to ourselves. There were 2 other guys who traveled from Jakarta. </div>
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Slowly, the sun began to ascend, turning the sky into a beautiful palette of colours. As we witnessed the beauty unravelling before us, we began to understand why Irwan had insisted on bringing us here. Apparently not many tourists come here, so the site is unspoilt and free of litter. </div>
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For the truly adventurous, Mt Papandayan offers an exciting climbing adventure. The volcano is still active, hence offering a host of sights (beautiful edelweiss meadow, a dead forest and a steaming sulfur crater) and sounds of minor volcanic activities during the ascent. <span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;">The
highest part of the crater floor lies to the southeast. It is ~6600
feet (2000 m) high and sits ~800 feet (240 m) below the crater rim. </span> You can read more <a href="http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/06/01/mount-papandayan-the-mountain-beginners.html">here</a> and <a href="http://volcano.oregonstate.edu/papandayan">here</a>.</div>
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Only after the sun is up, we could truly appreciate the volcanic terrain in its full glory. The environment is so harsh that only very little vegetation can survive.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"> After its first
historical eruption in 1772, in which collapse of the NE flank produced a
catastrophic debris avalanche that destroyed 40 villages and killed
nearly 3000 persons, only small phreatic eruptions had occurred prior to
an explosive eruption that began in November 2002. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;">Papandayan is a complex stratovolcano</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"><a class="glossary-term" href="http://volcano.oregonstate.edu/definitions/stratovolcano"><cite title="A volcano composed of both lava flows and pyroclastic material.
"></cite></a></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small;">which is found in a row of volcanoes. It has very distinctive yellow crater <a class="glossary-term" href="http://volcano.oregonstate.edu/glossary/1/letterc#term29"><cite title="A steep-sided, usually circular depression formed by either explosion or collapse at a volcanic vent."></cite></a>walls due to coloring by sulfur. Around us, we could see burnt trees, bubbling mud pools, steam vents and sulphur deposits.</span></div>
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During the descent, we could see the trail was covered in loose volcanic rocks and sand. Without proper shoes, it would have been impossible to hike here. Even in my walking shoes, I slipped and slid down some loose sand, scraping my knee in the process.</div>
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So, when we saw a local riding his bike up the dusty trail ferrying bottled water for a group of hikers, we were most amused.</div>
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I must say this was an amazing experience. If we had ventured further to the summit of Mt Papandayan, we would have been able to
see the famous four craters, Lake of Colours and edelweiss meadow. Unfortunately we weren't
really suited up for climbing that day. We could always return again
considering Bandung is only a short flight away.</div>
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At the base of the mountain,the fertile volcanic soil is perfect for growing crops. A group of farmers were seen harvesting cabbage.</div>
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If you're visiting Bandung and wish to visit Mt Papandayan, please contact Irwan. You will find more <a href="http://www.mpvrentcar.com/2011/10/papandayan-volcano.html">details here</a>.</div>
Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4187131513409862167.post-11623043392542169552014-10-01T00:20:00.002-07:002024-03-12T04:54:27.628-07:00Kampong Naga <div style="text-align: left;">
Since we were in Garut, Irwan suggested we visit Kampung Naga, a well-preserved traditional village on the border
of Ciwulan river. </div>
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To get to the village, we walked down a flight of about 400 steps, taking in picturesque views of padi fields and streams along the way.</div>
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Kampung Naga is one of
traditional kampongs in Indonesia that still upholds its ancient
traditions and goes by the law set by their ancestors.</div>
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The villagers do not use any machinery to plough the fields. All the crops are grown organically without the aid of pesticides or chemicals. The rice grown in the rich volcanic soil are the biggest I have ever seen.</div>
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Shepard manning his goats.</div>
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There are about 100 wooden houses inhabited by 360
people. The houses are rebuilt every 30 years or so, but there is no
place for more. So the natural increase of inhabitants have to make
their home outside at Neglasari village on the main road.</div>
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According to the guide, the houses are built so close together so that neighbours can share food amongst themselves simply by stretching out their arms . </div>
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Another peculiar feature is the bamboo cup hanging by the main door of every house. </div>
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Each morning, the resident will put a spoonful of raw rice into the jar. At the end of the week, the collection is poured into a central stockpile which is distributed to the needy residents in the village.</div>
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The houses are built using natural materials, eg, roof is made from palm leaves. There is no electricity and the community live using the natural resources around them.</div>
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I left the village feeling very impressed with the social system that exists at Kampung Naga. The villagers live harmoniously together in the small community, taking care of each other like family. Life is simple here, but so sweet.</div>
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It's a good thing I'm still in touch with my friends from junior college. We often travel together and our holidays are always filled with fun and laughter. We've just returned from Bandung, <span class="st">capital of West Java province in Indonesia, and are already planning our next trip. The way things are going, this is turning out to be a yearly event.</span></div>
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<span class="st">Thanks to GC, our head planner, the trip went exceptionally well. The driver cum tour guide is polite, highly efficient and extremely patient. </span></div>
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The flight from Singapore to Bandung is about 2 hours. The airport at Bandung is so tiny, by the time we got to the customs, the queue was already spilling out of the airport. Some people were lining up on the tarmac under the hot sun. It was quite an amusing sight.<br />
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We wanted to spend the first half of our trip outside of the city, so Irwan suggested Garut - about 75km away from Bandung City. <span class="st"><i>Garut</i> is an Old Dutch hill station and a
characteristic Sundanese town in the highlands, surrounded by mountains,
volcanoes, and crystal clear lakes.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><i></i></span>Enroute to our lunch destination, we stopped to buy sweet potatoes grown in their rich and fertile volcanic soil. These sweet potatoes have been baked for several hours and were exceptionally sweet!</div>
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Fermented tapioca (below) is a local delicacy which has a sweet and sour taste. It smelled rather strange and we gave it a miss.</div>
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We were so enamoured with the sweet potatoes that I bought 1kg (for S$1) of raw ones back to Singapore. </div>
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Irwan bought us to this amazing place in Nagreg for lunch. Asep Stroberi (Asstro) restaurant, located at Jalan Raya Nagreg
Number 145, serves Sudanese food in traditional wooden gazebos facing padi fields and lush scenery.</div>
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They have a strawberry farm which allows visitors to pick their own fruits but we only found out after we have left the restaurant.</div>
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We were treated to fabulous views in all directions.</div>
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The food did not disappoint. The strawberry and avocado juice were delicious. According to the locals, most of the local produce are grown organically. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kFZFA_AOoQ0/VCONTxK5BGI/AAAAAAAAaxc/Sdo2FueUFR0/s1600/1-IMG_1436.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kFZFA_AOoQ0/VCONTxK5BGI/AAAAAAAAaxc/Sdo2FueUFR0/s1600/1-IMG_1436.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So happy to be here!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAcOIQu-DB4/VCONTAhF8aI/AAAAAAAAaxE/0aAv0jPfReU/s1600/1-IMG_1432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAcOIQu-DB4/VCONTAhF8aI/AAAAAAAAaxE/0aAv0jPfReU/s1600/1-IMG_1432.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I like how they toss in herbs, leaves and chilli to add flavouring to the rice. We should do this at home too!</div>
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Blur Tinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07792543153416871887noreply@blogger.com4